And while we try to avoid getting grumpy and stressed, it happens to the best of us. Particularly when your Christmas day includes a tension-fraught lunch with the in-laws.

So if you find yourself struggling to keep it together in the presence of your chaotic extended fam (let’s face it, whose isn’t?), we’ve got a little something to help you out: boozy cocktail recipes that are Christmas themed, so no one will question why you’ve felt the need to crack open the vodka and abandoned your aunty’s terrible eggnog. And if sipping on these throughout the day doesn’t help you have a Christmas filled with love, joy and happiness, it’ll at least make it a bearable one…

1. Blackberry Ombre Sparkler

How delicious do these look? Offer them round to you chatty cousins so they can talk about these pretty Christmas hued drinks and not their boring life dramas. (Recipe here)

2. Holiday Milk Punch

If you need to hide the fact you’re having a drink before 12pm from your family, then this rum and brandy mix disguised as milk is a winner. (Recipe here)

3. Mulled Wine

With star anise, nutmeg and cinnamon sticks, this mulled wine recipe is sure to spice things up and warm your belly. (Recipe here)

4. Holiday Mule

When in the presence of your OTT fam, combine cranberry juice, ginger beer and an array of seasonal garnishes to make a drink that’s fresh and will help you relax and unwind. (Recipe here)

Give your hot chocolate a little kick with this Christmas themed twist. Just make sure not to confuse the adults version with the kids ones, or the day could get very interesting… (Recipe here)

7. Pomegranate Rosemary Spritzer

This sparkly pomegranate cocktail will help you get through a family filled Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve or just a regular Thursday evening! (Recipe here)

8. Peppermint White Russians

If you’re too busy wrapping up presents and don’t have the time to spend creating tasty cocktails, then this one is for you. With only three ingredients, you’ll be quickly satisfied. (Recipe here)

9. Cherry Candy Cane Mojito

When life gives you candy canes, make candy cane cocktails. Not only do they act as a festive garnish, but they amplify the minty mojito taste. Mmmm… (Recipe here)

10. Christmas Sangria

The red cranberries and green rosemary in this cocktail scream Christmas, so it’s the perfect drink to add to your holiday repertoire. After one sip you’ll feel refreshed and ready to take on the holiday mayhem. (Recipe here)

11. Brandy Alexander

This decadent, creamy cocktail is sure to take the edge off the festive season. Featuring only four ingredients, it’ll instantly become your go-to nightcap. (Recipe here)

12. The Grinch

To avoid being labelled a grinch by your extended fam, start sipping on this sweet drink throughout the day. The combination of Midori and lemon juice tastes like a lemon tart and should go down a treat. (Recipe here)

13. Candy Cane Cocktail

If you can find the time during the busy holiday period, try creating this candy cane cocktail from candy cane infused vodka. A novelty for the family, this drink is sure to make even the most drama-filled Christmas merry and bright! (Recipe here)